Founded in 1751, during a time when British shippers dominated the Port trade, Ferreira is the oldest Port house still in existence and remains a beloved brand in the domestic market. Under the leadership of Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, one of the most remarkable widows in the wine world, the company flourished into the powerhouse it is today. An astute businesswoman, Dona Antónia expanded Ferreira’s vineyard holdings, pioneered viticulture in the Douro Superior, and safeguarded the company’s library stocks.

Her influence extended beyond winemaking, as she also worked tirelessly to improve the lives of the impoverished in the Douro region by building schools, hospitals, and offering aid during the phylloxera crisis. Ahead of her time, she understood the importance of vineyard ownership to ensure quality, at a time when many Port houses relied on purchasing bulk wine from farmers. By the time of her death in 1896, Ferreira had become the largest landowner in the Douro, with a portfolio of prestigious Quintas, including Quinta do Vesúvio, Quinta de Vargellas, and Quinta do Vale Meão. As a further tribute to her legacy, the Portuguese public recently chose to name a new bridge in Porto the ‘Dona Antónia’ bridge.

Tasting Notes